Buhari begs clerics to pacify Nigerians over economic hardship

President Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday appealed to religious leaders in the country to carry the message of hope to the people that things would improve.

Speaking at a meeting with the Council of Abuja Imams at the State House, in Abuja, the President urged the religious leaders “to keep calming the people.”

He said leaders at all levels are trying to solve the problems of poverty, unemployment and insecurity that have been bedevilling the country.

The President said government chose to give priority to agriculture so as to create jobs for unemployed citizens and give the country food security.

He said although efforts had begun, there was a bigger plan for the provision of fertilizers and insecticides, among others.

On the efforts to improve power supply in the country, the President said government was working hard to bring foreign investors from China and some friendly countries that have indicated interest in developing the proposed Mambila and other hydro-electric power projects in the country.

The President assured that the steps government was taking on the crisis in the Niger Delta would lead to a long term peace and stability in the region.

On the war against corruption and the Boko Haram terrorism, the President assured that government would remain resolute and relentless, saying “we have no plan to humiliate or embarrass anyone through these actions. We are merely interested in instituting justice and fairness for all.”

In his remarks, Chairman of Abuja Council of Imams, Dr. Tajudeen Mohammed Bello Adigun, commended government’s efforts in addressing issues of corruption and terrorism in the country.

He also stressed the need for the federal government to work on other sectors such as the economy, health services, education and unemployment.